(1842-52) $5 A. Bechtler Five Dollar, 134G. 21C. MS61 NGC. No
Star, K-27, Low R.5. Of the four August Bechtler five dollar
issues that Don Kagin lists for the time period of roughly
1842-1852, the K-27 is the only readily accessible type. (The K-20,
R.4 with the star in the center, is from the 1837-1842 timeframe.)
The remaining three No Star five issues, K-28 (128G.), K-29 (141G.)
through K-30 (141G., proof restrike with die break), are each R.6
or higher.
This greenish-gold example displays vibrant mint luster with some
light field chatter and a few hair-thin scrapes that account for
the grade, although they scarcely detract from the appeal. This is
the single finest certified of this variety at either NGC or PCGS,
as the finest at the latter service is a sole AU58. Listed on page
365 of the 2011 Guide Book. Census: 1 in 61, 0 finer (7/10). (PCGS# 10046)